Cruise the canals of picture-perfect Bruges and see why this fairytale city is one of the most visited in Belgium. The colorful houses reflect in the sparkling waters while the cobbled streets wind through the UNESCO-recognized old city center. Travelers should spend time in the Market Square, see the Michelangelo sculpture at the Church of our Lady, and climb the 366 steps to the top of the belfry for impressive vistas. Don’t forget to sweeten your time in the city by tasting some of the famous chocolate.

It only takes about an hour and 15 minutes to drive the 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Brussels to Bruges. By train, travel time is just around an hour.

As the second largest city in Belgium and diamond processing capital of the world, Antwerp is a true gem to visit. With over half a million people calling the city home, there is always plenty to do and see. Some of the top attractions in the city include one of the oldest zoos in the world, the Rubens House Museum — former home of the famed Dutch master — and the glittering jewels of the diamond district.

Only 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Brussels, Antwerp is easy to get to. Driving takes only 35 minutes, while the train takes just 10 minutes more. The bus is the slowest method of travel, but it still gets you to town in about 50 minutes.

Head out of town for the day to the serene riverside city of Dinant. The city strikes a dramatic silhouette at the base of a towering rock cliff. Atop the cliff, the Citadel of Dinant has guarded the city since the 11th century, while at the base, travelers shouldn’t miss the Church of Notre Dame de Dinant. For music lovers, Dinant was also the hometown of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone. Learn about his life and his melodious invention at his former home. Finish off your adventure with a tour of Maison Leffe and a sample of this favorite Belgian brew.

By train, you can travel the 98 kilometers (60 miles) in 90 minutes to two hours. By car, the journey takes between an hour and 90 minutes.